Heritage Walk Old Brouillon

Winding through the heart of Brouillon's colonial past, the Heritage Walk Old Brouillon is a self-guided journey that peels back layers of the region's convict and pastoral history. This leisurely stroll connects weathered stone cottages, a historic inn, and a convict-built bridge, all framed by the rolling countryside of the Northern Rivers. It's a must for history buffs and anyone who loves a good story embedded in old walls.

Highlights & What to See

• Old Brouillon Inn (c. 1845): A sandstone pub that once served drovers and gold seekers; stop in for a counter meal and a glimpse of the original cedar bar.
• Convict-built Bridge: A single-arch stone bridge over Brouillon Creek, hand-cut by convicts in the 1830s – one of the oldest surviving bridges in the region.
• St. Mark's Anglican Church: A tiny Gothic Revival church with stained-glass windows donated by early settlers; the adjacent cemetery holds headstones dating to the 1840s.
• Heritage Gardens: Restored cottage gardens around the old post office, featuring heirloom roses and fruit trees that would have been typical of a 19th-century homestead.
• Brouillon Museum: Housed in the former schoolmaster's residence, it displays convict relics, farming tools, and photographs that bring the walk's sites to life.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow 1.5 to 2 hours for the full walk at a relaxed pace, including time to pop into the museum and pause at the bridge. If you plan to have lunch at the inn, budget an extra hour. The walk is flat and easy, suitable for all fitness levels. Morning light is best for photography, especially on the bridge and church.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Brouillon Village: Just a 5-minute drive away, this charming settlement has a farmers' market on Saturdays and a renowned artisan bakery.
• Nightcap National Park: 20 minutes north, with rainforest walks and the dramatic Minyon Falls – a great contrast to the heritage walk.
• Lismore: 30 minutes south, offering the Lismore Regional Gallery and a vibrant café scene in a historic riverside setting.
• Bangalow: 40 minutes east, known for its heritage-listed main street, boutiques, and weekly produce market.

Please check official sources for current details.